Macky Sall–Diomaye Faye: When the Republic speaks with one voice! (by Ibrahima Baba SALL)

By personally greeting him in front of the Presidential Palace, the Head of State demonstrated great republican elegance. This gesture reflects both the respect due to a former President, the consideration accorded to an elder, and the commitment to the values of courtesy that have always characterized the State of Senegal. This attitude honors our country and serves as a reminder that institutions are above partisan politics.

Senegal was built on an exemplary democratic tradition of dialogue, respect for institutions, and recognition of services rendered to the nation. From Senghor to Abdou Diouf, from Abdoulaye Wade to Macky Sall, successive changes of power have ensured the continuity of the state. By recently honoring President Abdoulaye Wade during the centenary celebrations at the National Grand Theater and by extending a warm welcome to President Macky Sall today, President Diomaye Faye is upholding this fine republican tradition that defines the unique character and strength of Senegalese democracy.

It is also worth commending the exceptional mobilization of Senegalese men and women around President Macky Sall's candidacy. This mobilization transcends political affiliations and reflects a widely shared conviction: that of seeing a son of Senegal reach the highest administrative position in the United Nations. The popular enthusiasm observed in recent days testifies to a profound appreciation for his national and international career, as well as a certain nostalgia for a period marked by unprecedented diplomatic influence.

This candidacy comes at a time when Senegalese diplomacy is gradually regaining its rightful place on the international stage. Recent successes in relations with ECOWAS, strengthened dialogue with several strategic partners, and positive signals sent at international meetings, particularly in Paris, illustrate a new dynamic. Senegal is returning to a diplomacy of influence, dialogue, and consultation.

This recovery was not a foregone conclusion. For many months, certain excessive statements, sometimes hostile to Senegal's long-standing partners, had created misunderstandings and raised questions among several technical and financial partners. Verbal tensions and confrontational stances had contributed to undermining a climate of trust that is nevertheless essential for the country's economic development and attractiveness. Today, the return to a more peaceful and pragmatic diplomacy is fostering the resumption of constructive dialogue with technical and financial partners and strengthening Senegal's international credibility.

In this context, the welcome extended to President Macky Sall takes on particular significance. Beyond mere republican courtesy, it constitutes a strong signal to the international community. It reflects Senegal's ability to transcend political divisions when it comes to defending the nation's best interests. It can also be interpreted as a de facto acceptance of the legitimacy of the candidacy put forward by the former Head of State.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye should therefore not be distracted by the controversies or threats of censorship circulating here and there. The Constitution grants him the legitimacy and the means to fully exercise his responsibilities. History will remember more the actions that strengthen national unity and Senegal's international prestige than the current political squabbles.

These political squabbles are punctuated by attacks launched by Ousmane Sonko against the President of the Republic during his recent tour of Touba, where he accused President Diomaye's regime of pouring ill-gotten gains into the holy city of Serigne Touba, thus provoking the anger of the entire population. This was followed by a lawsuit filed against Ousmane Sonko by Serigne Touba's descendants.

Ousmane Sonko and his MPs are unjustly accusing President Macky Sall of crimes, even though they have all the necessary means to repeal the amnesty law, in accordance with their pre-election promises. President Macky Sall himself has urged them to repeal the law so that the truth can be uncovered about the unfortunate events of 2022 to 2024.

Ousmane Sonko has lost everything and all he has left is his mouth to shout and his eyes to cry.

The exceptional mobilization of the Senegalese people, the respect for our democratic traditions, and the stated commitment to restoring Senegal to its rightful place on the international stage are major assets today. More than ever, our country is demonstrating that its greatest strength lies in its ability to unite around what truly matters.

When Senegal's interests are at stake, divisions must be set aside. This is the message the Senegalese people have sent. It is also the profound meaning of this meeting between two statesmen who, each in their own way, contribute to the influence of our country.

When Senegal speaks with one voice, it is capable of moving mountains and the prize, God willing, will be the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.